We have all heard the phrase “new year, new you,” and as much as it drives some of us crazy, a new year is the perfect excuse to make a change. Sure, there’s never anything stopping you from doing that on a random Wednesday in June, but catchy slogans are fun. Most New Year’s resolutions revolve around adopting healthier habits and more often than not, alcohol is usually involved. Which is why The Rickey in Midtown Manhattan has created some special craft cocktails you don’t have to feel too guilty over.
From the mind of Rickey’s mixologist Johnny Swet, these three drinks feature ingredients with some positive health benefits that may help your “new you” out a little. If anything, you’ll certainly have some knowledge to back up your drinking when a friend calls you out for abandoning your resolutions.
Aztec Pony
“The powerful nutrient combination of fiber, potassium, lycopene, vitamin C and choline found in grapefruit aids in maintaining a healthy heart. Additionally, grapefruits are low in calories and an excellent source of vitamin A and vitamin C—both of which are crucial for healthy looking skin.”
Combine Don Julio Reposado, grapefruit, Combier Kummel and Mexican grapefruit soda.
The Cartel
“Coconut Water is low in fat, carbohydrates and calories, and features a significant amount of electrolytes. Expressly designed for the coconut water ice cube to melt as one sips, revealing the full flavor of the drink, The Cartel is not only refreshing but it’s hydrating too.”
Combine Sailor Jerry Rum and pineapple syrup in glass with one block of ice made from coconut water. Top with grated Columbian coffee beans.
Jerry Lee Lewis
“A rift on the popular Fireball, the Jerry Lee Lewis is aptly named after the singer’s biggest hit Great Balls of Fire. The chili liquor, bitters and garnish…not only give the drink its spicy kick, [but] chilies, in fact, [have] both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties with major health benefits:
- - Chili peppers are a rich source of Vitamin C, a potent, water-soluble antioxidant that will boost your immune system to build up resistance against infection
- - Some studies say that chilies are effective for weight loss, as…they may decrease calorie intake, shrink fat tissue, lower blood fat levels, as well as fight fat-build-up
- - Studies have shown that chili peppers aid in pain-relief of sore nerves, muscles, joints and more by de-sensitizing sensory receptors in your skin
- - Chilies contain capsaicin, which is known to have anti-bacterial, anti-carcinogenic, analgesic and anti-diabetic properties
Combine Hudson Baby Bourbon, Ancho Reyes chili liquor, homemade (or store-bought) cinnamon syrup and a dash of Thai Birds Eye Chili Bitters. Serve over an ice sphere and garnish with a cinnamon stick and a chili.
